NEWS&VIEWS by Jacqueline Bennett

Destination: Bill’s Seafood Near the “Singing Bridge”

Posted on July 5, 2016

“The Singing Bridge”

Write-Up & Photos by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb.com

One of the most popular shacks along the Connecticut shoreline is Bill’s Seafood. Not far from Hammonasset Beach State Park, Bill’s Seafood is located in Westbrook next to “The Singing Bridge” – so nicknamed because of the harmonic sound it emanates as vehicles pass over. Open seven days a week – except Christmas and Thanksgiving – it seems this place is perpetually packed.

At the front of the room, The Truck Stop Troubadours perform July 3, 2016 for a full house at Bill’s Seafood in Westbrook, CT.

Popular oudoor patio.

From the road the view of the outdoor patio is always appealing – it has a great setting near a small body of water. On this Sunday afternoon the rustic inside room was also full. Casual attire is okay here, like cutoffs and muscle shirts on this summer day. The crowd was eclectic: mixed age, families, couples, single friends, some bikers.

Entertainment is one of the drawing cards – indoors the Truck Stop Troubadours sang Willie Nelson’s “Whiskey River” and more … check out http://www.truckstoptroubadours.com for their schedule.

As with any restaurant it is the menu that brings in hungry customers. Bill’s Seafood serves both New England Clam Chowder made with a cream broth (my preference) and Rhode Island Clam Chowder made with a clear broth. They have salads and appetizers – from Fried Mozzarella with sauce to Point Judith Style Calamari, Bill’s Own Maryland Blue Crab Cakes to Steamed Prince Edward Island (hey-I’ve been there) Mussels with garlic bread. A few finds on the extensive “Sandwich Board” are BLT, Grilled Cheese, Salmon Burger. Entrees include Baked Boston Scrod – another personal fav – a Stonington Sea Scallops Platter, Boiled or Stuffed Maine Lobster, Chicken Marsala, Prime Rib and even Spaghetti.

For dessert try NY Style Cheesecake with strawberries or Irish Cream Bash – (Bill’s is counting the days to its St. Patrick’s Day Festivities); or, cross the parking lot to Bill’s Etc. to visit a little gift shop and for ice cream – an intriguing special flavor on this day, “White Russian”. I’m told the pistachio was tasty too.

Parking can be tricky, tight and on a slight knoll on the road side but car-parkers are available. Credit cards are not accepted, however, two ATM machines are on-site. Handicap and wheelchair accessible – yes.

If you’re up for a good time and have a hankering for seafood, Bill’s is your kind of place.